5 Best Ohio LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)

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When you decide to start an LLC in Ohio, you must thoroughly research and do your homework. Starting an LLC is relatively easy; with professional help, opening an LLC in Ohio becomes even smoother. You will find many such companies when choosing the best LLC formation service in Ohio. Surprisingly, every other company will claim to be the best. But who to trust? How do you know who is the best for your business?

LLCBuddy Editors have eased the task for you. We scanned the market and came up with a list of the best LLC formation services in Ohio. You can compare their services, prices, and other information here before choosing the right one!

If you do not like reading a long article, you can watch the above video for the complete list of best LLC Ohio LLC formation services. It is mandatory to choose the best LLC formation service in Ohio, especially when you want to get rid of any hassle while forming your Ohio LLC. You may start it on your own, but it will not be a wise decision, as missing out any step or even a small thing can lead to the cancellation of the process.

Best LLC Service in Ohio

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio
How to Form an LLC in Ohio
How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Ohio
FAQs

Best LLC Formation Services in Ohio

Here is the list of best LLC services available in Ohio. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in Ohio at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in Ohio-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	5/5 $0 + State Fees	Free LLC formation Access to Legal Support Trustworthy and established reputation	Learn More
	4/5 $299 + State Fees	Flat pricing for all services Basic business filing services A+ BBB Accredited	Learn More

Below is the list of best LLC formation services in Ohio we picked for you.

LLCBuddy Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you must cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Ohio that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0.

LegalZoom Plans

Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoom	Why You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formation	Expensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputation	Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround time	Less number of add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. Though you must pay the Ohio filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is there is an access to legal documents and legal consultation. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire Statutory Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Ohio with LegalZoom

2. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company than other competitors. But this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
Permit & License Search Service – $125
Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegal	Why You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are final	The basic package does not include registered agent service
Quick Turnaround time	Additional charge for EIN
A+ BBB Accredited	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($99 for online and by mail filing in Ohio). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, upon cancelation, no refund is made. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in Ohio with BetterLegal

3. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Ohio? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost.

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offer a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offer, including starting an LLC, filing it, Ohio name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

Registered Agent Service – $199/year
Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
Annual Compliances – $299/year
Operating Agreement – $29
Expedited Filing – $49
Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrands	Why You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formation	Not BBB Accredited
Free business bank accounts	No business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formation	Additional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $99 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons.

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

Form LLC in Ohio with TailorBrands

4. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Ohio, though you must pay the state filing fee of $99 to the Ohio Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusiness	Why You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rate	Does not form Ohio nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Ohio	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Statutory Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in Ohio at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Ohio. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee.

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in Ohio. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in Ohio with ZenBusiness

5. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Ohio. It offers LLC formation at $ 39+ state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly.

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in Ohio are listed below-

LLC formation in Ohio at $39 + state filing fee
Registered Agent at $125 yearly
Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
Obtaining EIN at $50
Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Statutory Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get Northwest	Why You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in Ohio	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	Additional charges to obtain EIN in Ohio
Purchase only the service you need to form Ohio LLC.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Statutory Agent service in Ohio

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in Ohio. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($99). If you have already formed your LLC in Ohio and are willing to appoint Statutory Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Ohio and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation.

Form LLC in Ohio with Northwest Registered Agent

How to Form an LLC in Ohio

Ohio, popularly known as The Buckeye State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 11,878,330. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Ohio is $829,594 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Ohio will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Columbus, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

To form an LLC in Ohio, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Ohio Statutory Agent, filing the Ohio Articles of Organization, creating Ohio LLC operating agreement, and finally getting an EIN for filing required taxes.

You can do that on your own. However, it is always recommended to get a professional person on board to guide you through. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Ohio

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research on following points-

Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

FAQs

What is an LLC formation service in Ohio?

An LLC formation service in Ohio is a company that assists people looking to form a limited liability company in Ohio.

Why do people need an LLC formation service in Ohio?

People need an LLC formation service in Ohio because they can be a valuable resource for guidance and assistance throughout the LLC formation process.

What are the benefits of having a limited liability company in Ohio?

Some benefits of having a limited liability company in Ohio include protecting personal assets, saving money on taxes, and having greater flexibility when managing your business.

Are LLC formation services in Ohio different from those in other states?

Yes, LLC formation services in Ohio are tailored specifically for the state of Ohio and its unique regulations and requirements.

How can I find the best LLC formation service in Ohio?

Research LLC formation services in Ohio online or seek referrals from local business owners and professionals.

How much does an LLC formation service in Ohio cost?

The cost of an LLC formation service in Ohio varies depending on the level of services and support offered, but typically ranges from $50 to $500.

Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC in Ohio?

While it is not necessary to have a lawyer to form an LLC in Ohio, it is often recommended to ensure that all legal requirements are met.

What documents do I need to form an LLC in Ohio?

You will need to file articles of organization and a registration with the Ohio Secretary of State to form an LLC in Ohio.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Ohio?

The LLC formation process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks in Ohio depending on several factors, including the number of applications being processed by the Ohio Secretary of State.

What are the requirements for forming an LLC in Ohio?

Requirements for forming an LLC in Ohio include choosing a name that meets the state’s guidelines, appointing a registered agent, and filing appropriate documentation with the Ohio Secretary of State.

Can I operate an LLC that was formed out of Ohio in Ohio?

Yes, an LLC formed outside of Ohio can operate in the state as long as it has been properly registered and complies with all state and federal regulations.

What are some common mistakes people make when forming an LLC in Ohio?

Some common mistakes people make when forming an LLC in Ohio include making document errors, choosing an unsuitable name, and failing to file necessary paperwork.

How can I ensure that I am compliant with Ohio LLC laws?

Work closely with an LLC formation service in Ohio which will assist in meeting all mandatory standards for a compliant LLC status.

Can I get personal asset protection by forming an LLC in Ohio?

Yes, a limited liability company in Ohio will protect personal assets, but one needs to comply to all documented regulations.

How do I obtain a tax ID for my Ohio-based LLC?

You can apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS on their website. It is essential to having this number before employed any personnel.

What is the processing time for getting Ohio LLC EIN after its formation?

The standard processing time for a registered Ohio-based LLC to receive an EIN or Federal Tax Identification Number domestically is 3-10 days, while International startups can take a few weeks.

Can I be the registered agent for my Ohio-based LLC?

Yes, it is allowed for anyone, duly aged and authorized to conduct business in the state of Ohio, to be listed as the registered agent for an LLC.

What are annual report filing prerequisite conditions for an Ohio LLC?

Ohio LLCs must file for an Annual report annually even with no significant changes affecting their company information.

Can somebody else operate my Ohio-based LLC?

Yes, another duly authorized party can operate an Ohio-based LLC provided they share the authorization details during the Application process.

How long is an Ohio LLC in good standing typically valid for?

Ohio LLCs are legally entitled to remain promptly valid once annual fee’s are made to the Secretary of State Office.

Who constitutes the best LLC formation service in Ohio?

The best LLC formation service Ohio would be a signature company reliable with experience in supporting an LLC in fulfilling statutory, legal requirements by forming an LLC easily and uninterruptedly from state level to Federal compliance status while organically following dynamic business plans and procedures.

Are Authorized and State name the same in Ohio while forming an LLC?

Yes, the authorized name, which commonly differs from the regular name used in business, does not need to be documented during the process of LLC formation, as only one is required, and whoever is filing the papers, must declare the authoritative aswell.

Is an Ohio LLC Startup, required to own an Ohio business premises?

No, being that the “Buckeye State” encourages remote startup, where an appointed business or P.O. mailbox address can meet the criteria for it to be formed and maintained for some Ohio-based LLCs such as consultation and media-based businesses.

Can my LLC act as Trustee for a Florida Land Trust?

Primarily, initially, starting up as a trustee for both features an extensive framework therefore, anyone intends to be helpful following starting-up measures should initially focus on building the kind authority and navigating well only after expert guidance to make this a source of growth and expansion.

How much mandatory involvement is involved during Ohio LLC and its formation with critical business plans?

The involvement amount varies relied upon state guidelines upon register, on-ground leveling standards include obtaining licenses and obtaining tradepermit along with shareholder participation legally completing compliance agreements.

Does the Ohio LLC require a public filing?

Yes, Public documents primarily relating to corporate articles of incorporation must be provided according to Ohio law.

Can a foreign LLC of Ohio Operate freely without bothering small details from beforehand?

No Ohio law as with many States mandates foreign limited liability companies referred to as an “LLC operates through the relevant Government agency by submitting suitable Documents.

What are the advantages of forming an LLC in Ohio?

Ohio offers lower filing fees as well as ease of use in setting up an LLC.

Can I form an LLC in Ohio if I am not a resident?

Yes. Ohio permits non-residents and non-US citizens to form an LLC.

Is it required to have a registered agent in Ohio LLC formation?

Yes. Ohio the secretary of states office requires a registered agent who is a resident or a registered service provider.

What business entity types are available in Ohio?

Sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, S corporation, and C corporation.

What is the filing fee for forming an LLC in Ohio?

The filing fee for Ohio LLC Articles of Organization is $99.

How long does the LLC formation process take in Ohio?

The filing of Articles of Organization typically takes 3-7 days processing time.

Can I reserve a name before forming an LLC in Ohio?

Yes. Ohio allows the reservation of an LLC name for 180 days before filing.

Can Ohio LLCs be formed online?

Yes. The Ohio Secretary of State allows online filing for LLC formation.

Can I modify my LLC Operating Agreement in Ohio?

Yes. The operating agreement is an internal document and can be modified.

Does Ohio require state taxation to form an LLC?

Ohio requires the payment of Ohio Commercial Activity Tax or CAT.

Can I dissolve an Ohio LLC on my own?

Yes. You can file Articles of Dissolution with the Ohio Corporations/LLCs Division.

How do I check the status of an Ohio LLC’s registration or incorporation?

Ohio Corporation Search allows searching online for existing or occupied LLC names.

Can non-profit companies in Ohio file for an LLC formation?

Yes. Non-profit corporations are permitted to form an LLC in Ohio.

Do I need an Attorney in Ohio for LLC formation?

Not Voluntarily. You can legally form an LLC in Ohio by filing the Articles of Incorporation yourself.

Can an Ohio LLC be taxed as a sole proprietorship?

Yes. Ohio allows for alternative taxation election including sole proprietorship.

What is the “Notice of Intent to use name” acknowledgment?

It’s the subsequent notification required by the Ohio Secretary of State that you’ve used the reserved LLC name.

What are the restrictions on naming my Ohio LLC?

Ohio LLCs are prohibited from including words representing particular disciplines i.e, Architects, banks or university alma maters etc.

Does Ohio LLC need to renew its registration regularly?

No. Renewal is not necessary under statewide law.

Is an Illinois LLC automatically recognized in Ohio?

No. Ohio requires a foreign qualification along process for new Illinois LLC formation for it to be recognized in Ohio.

After forming an Ohio LLC, what documents need to be maintained?

The LLC formation creates internal documents that set out pertinent details like Corporate Minutes and bylaws plus paperwork including contracts and other arrangements.

Can Ohio revoke an existing LLC’s license?

Yes. The Ohio Secretary of State intervenes by Superseding before statute violations like tax delinquency.

Do Ohio LLCs from any industry follow the same laws and procedures in their determinations?

Ohio laws apply the same laws and regulation to all active business entities.

Is Ohio an LLC protection friendly state?

Yes. Ohio typically institutes strict boundaries on all operating entities of public policy.i.e Liability protection.

Can Cancelled Ohio LLCs be restored?

Yes. Cancelled LLCs can be putback by submitting Aplication for Reinstatement/Airon Disclosure.

What certificates are required while forming an Ohio LLC?

Ohio doesn’t require issuance of certificates like Shares of Stock or Share Certificates for LLC formation.

Where can I get the Registration Certificate for an Ohio LLC?

You have the option of using third party filing services if approved by the Ohio Secretary of State or Ohio Secretary of State official website.

As an individual how can I register my Ohio LLC without hiring an agent?

After registering as Ohio LLC you are enabled for receiving notifications even without an agent.

Are Ohio LLC startup costs higher than other states?

No. Ohio’s filing fees are regularised and the state offers specific mail notification in improvement.

Can I have more than one registered LLC name?

No, you’ll require a separate filing fee for each LLC name selected in your Ohio LLC registration documents.

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in Ohio is much better than doing it yourself. It is hassle-free, and there is no chance of making mistakes while filing your business. This article lists the best LLC formation services in Ohio. Before you select one, make sure you compare the price, services, and features properly.